My placement with TPO is very varied and has allowed me to build up my skills both as a performer and as a musician. Working in an administrative role has given me a newfound perspective on all the different elements that have to come together to make rehearsals and concerts run smoothly and given me a greater respect for those who have made my previous musical experiences possible. 

My roles include communicating with ensemble participants and leaders, ensuring that they have everything they need to perform and making sure everyone is up to date in the information they need. I play an active role in events planning, researching and booking venues, equipment, travel and staff for the concerts and workshops. More recently I have taken on more musical arranging roles, orchestrating pieces of music from around the world for a small orchestral group. I also take an active performing role in a number of the ensembles playing trumpet in the Orchestra and Big Band and expanding my ability with my second instrument, the Saxophone, with the Rusty Player’s Orchestra. 

 Although this job felt a little like spinning plates at first, as I have gained more experience, I have settled into my various roles largely helped by the welcoming environment of the company where people are able to make mistakes and learn from them. For me the most challenging attributes have been technology setup such as microphones and lighting and learning to use new administration software but by building on the skills of the supportive staff and my fellow placement students I now feel a lot more comfortable in these areas. It has given me skills that have allowed me to develop my musicianship and technical abilities, but also many transferrable skills that I will be able to take with me going forward, regardless of career path.